Deckhand sues after getting hit by hook

A deckhand has filed suit against his employer after his fellow shipmate accidentally struck him in the head with a hook.

Port Arthur resident Juan Castillano filed his suit against Poteet Seafood, AHT Southeastern Enterprises and Andrew Tortensen III on Sept. 23 in Jefferson County District Court. Tortensen owns both defendant companies.

Court papers show that on July 24 Castillano was working as a deckhand aboard the shrimp trawler Capt. Drew.

"While another deckhand was trying to hook a net, the line came loose and the hook swung and hit Castillano on the right side of his head, causing injury to his head and neck," the suit states. "Such injuries occurred as a proximate result of Defendants' negligence, as well as the unseaworthiness of the Capt. Drew."

The suit does not specifically state the alleged negligent acts of the defendants.

Castillano is suing for punitive and compensatory damages.

Houston attorney Harold Eisenman is representing him.

The case has been assigned to Judge Donald Floyd, 172nd District Court.

Case No. E188-415